Horses are natural herbivores. When horses roamed free, their diet included a good portion of the herbs now found in today's dried herbal mixtures. These herbs would have been ingested fresh, as part of normal grazing. And when horses became ill, they instinctively sought out the herbs they new would help them feel better. this ability has been greatly reduced by domestication. Today, responsibility for their health has been delegated to us. Herbs can be very effective in maintaining health, correcting minor problems, and supporting recovery in serious illnesses.

Below, you will see a selection of products that are specifically selected and prepared for horses. They range from some that you will see in other forms for humans to those that are unique to the equine needs.

Those who have studied the horse feel that with its domestication came a host of maladies and diseases that were new to the horse - created and perpetuated by the ways in which we have altered the lifestyle, feeding regimes and sources, and uses of the animals.

It is no surprise....

Most domestic horses are confined to fenced areas that have a steady and stable pasture. Without a doubt, some pastures are more varied and nutritionally solid than others. Some horse owners test their pasture. Others do not. Some horse owners feed only cut hay while keeping their horses on dry lots. And finally, some horse owners supplement hay or pasture with pellets, grains, or other feeds. The horse's ability to seek out herbs to meet their needs has been completely eliminated in many cases. While it is surely unintentional, we have hampered our horses' ability to care for themselves. We can correct some of that with careful and insightful selection of herbals for them.

Useful Herbs and products for horses

Chamomile: Most often used for its sedative properties, it can be safely fed before competition to calm nerves without affecting performance. Many riders also benefit from a cup of chamomile tea to soothe pre-competition nerves! Very helpful for horses who suffer from "nervous colic" and can be fed on a regular routine. It dispels gas in the intestines. Chamomile flowers 1 pound $12

Devil's Claw: In cases of arthritis when there is pain or inflammation, any form of degenerative joint disorder, or bony changes resulting in inflammation, this may be of use. It is sometimes known as the "natural bute" but does not have the side effects. Devel's Claw Root cut or powder 1 pound $15

Echinacea Pupurea Herb (cut/sifted organic): This is one of the most potent herbs to support the immune system of the equine. It has abibiotic, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties for the horse as well as for humans. The active compounds in this herb increase the abilities of the white blood cells to surround and destroy bacterial and viral invaders. Most horses love the taste and just a small handful a day is given. 1 ounce $.60, 1 pound $9

Nettles: Rich in minerals, particularly iron, calcium and potassium, the vitamin C of the plant ensures the absorption of the iron, making nettles a useful addition to the treatment of anemia. Nettles improves mild flow of broodmares after foaling along with increasing iron and other minerals. 1 pound $12

Fenugreek: The seeds of this herb are the most dramatic body and hoof conditioner and appetizer, putting on flesh and making the coat shine in a very short time. It is also a uterine stimulant and should not be used during pregnancy. It is, however, most useful for the nursing mare as it improves both her milk flow and her condition after foaling. Remember, feeding a seed, it is either best to soak them first or grind when feeding to the horse, or use the powder form. Fenugreek seed 1 pound $7; Fenugreek seed powder 1 pound $8

Red Clover: The flower heads are used in several ways. All varieties of clover have a sedative and calming action, and yet clover can be used as a tonic as well. It is especially beneficial for horses that are run down or recovering from viral illnesses, particularly when a cough or mucus production is one of the symptoms. A brew of clover heads can be made for external use on skin conditions such as eczema. CAUTION: Very often, horses turned out onto pasture seeded highly in trifoliates will find the high clover levels too much to cope with and they may develop a condition similar to mud fever as a result of eating cover and other trifoliates. Ask for advice if in doubt. 1 pound $13

Red Raspberry Leaf: Traditionally used for animals (and humans) to help strengthen and tone the uterine muscles, to assist with contractions during foaling, checking hemorrhage and encouraging cleansing of the afterbirth. It is usually given for the last 4 to 8 weeks of pregnancy and after folaing for 1 week to help encourage cleansing and toning of the uterus. This should not be used during early pregnancy. 1 pound $12

Rosehips: The hips are a rich source of vitamin C as well as vitamin A, thiamine, niacin, riboflavin, vitamin K and volatile oil. Excellent for use as a spring tonic or in cases of general debility, rosehips are a mild astringent and will help with scouring. The high vitamin C levels will help the horse fight off infection and restore its defenses. It has been known to encourage strong healthy hoof growth (probably due to the flavonoids, along with the high vitamin levels). Rosehips seedless - 1 pound $11, Rosehips powder 1 pound $10.

Stevia Leaf (cut/sifted organic):Stevia is a very sweet, non-caloric herb. It has been used as a sweetening agent and flavor enhancer for centuries. It has the ability to balance blood sugars and contains some anti-microbial properties as well. The leaf has been used to sweeten such things as bran mash for the horse that prefers sweet feed. For anyone who has an insulin resistant horse (IR), use a little stevia in the bucket of food. With this herb, less is more and only 1/2 to 1 tsp. a day is suggested.1 ounce $.90, 1 pound $14

Bach Rescue Remedy:Rescue Remedy can be used in any situation that causes your horse stress or fright. It is a flower combination that can be used as a first aid measure in emergencies of all kinds including physical injuries, burns, or accidents which can also stress your horse. 10 ml $11, 12 ml $15

Himalayan Salt Lick: Imported from the mines of Pakistan, it is free of toxins. It promotes a healthy pH balance in the cells, stable blood sugar levels, prevention of muscle cramps, and assists in getting the proper amount of magnesium and other minerals necessary for good health. The blocks average 5-7 pounds $16 each

Focus WT (weight):Focus WT provides effective support for the thin horse and maintenance of weight under stress - certain horses seem to need more than good feed management and parasite control to gain weight or maintain it under stress. Contains a unique broad spectrum of support nutrients including digestive enzymes, beneficial microbes, B-complex vitamins, nutritional yeast culture, chelated trace minerals and Source Micronutrients. 5 pound pail $26

Source for Horses - Maintenance forumula for Optimum Care: Legendary Support to Thrive! Effective support for healty hooves, superior coat, weight, disposition, breeding, and performance for horses of all ages, breeds, and activities. 5pound pail $20